Banks urged to change authentication methods to prevent scams, says Bukit Aman

Source: The Star

PETALING JAYA: Banks are advised to change authentication methods used by customer service agents when dealing with clients as they are similar to the ones used by scammers, says Bukit Aman.

Federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) director Comm Datuk Seri Ramli Mohamed Yoosuf, in a statement on Saturday (April 6), said that the police are urging "more effective" ways to deal with customers on the phone.

He said the police advise consumers not to entertain unknown numbers, however, customer service agents from banks have been known to call clients using cell phone numbers instead of official bank numbers.

"They will ask for authentication, which normally consists of the last digits of their MyKad. This type of authentication can be confusing to customers, as scammers employ the same tactic.

"As such, the CCID advises everyone not to share any private information, as it could lead to the possibility of falling victim to scammers. Banks are advised to find more effective ways to deal with customers, especially when on the telephone," he said.

He also urges everyone to stay vigilant, especially during the upcoming Hari Raya holidays, and to share known scamming modus operandi with friends and family while visiting one another.